Essential Parking Tips When Traveling During Peak Seasons

You’ve planned your dream vacation, booked the accommodations, and packed your bags. But have you thought about parking? It’s often an overlooked aspect of travel that can swiftly turn into a major headache, especially during peak seasons. Whether you’re flying out of a busy airport or driving to a famous tourist destination, finding a spot for your vehicle can be a challenging experience.

A study found that drivers spend an average of 6.03 minutes searching for parking. That’s already long enough. How much more during peak travel periods? This wasted time not only eats into your vacation but also adds unnecessary stress to what should be an enjoyable travel experience. (1)

Traveling soon? Read on for some parking tips to help you save time, money, and frustration during peak season, ensuring your trip gets off to a smooth start.

Plan and Research

Before you hit the road, take some time to research parking options at your destination. Many popular tourist spots and cities have online resources that provide information about available parking facilities, rates, and even real-time availability.

While you’re planning, it’s also a good opportunity to discover ideal family accommodations that offer convenient parking options. Some hotels and vacation rentals provide on-site parking or have agreements with nearby garages, which can simplify your travel logistics. This approach to planning can greatly reduce travel stress, especially when visiting populated tourist areas during peak seasons. 

Try Off-Site Parking

If you’re flying to your destination, don’t automatically assume that airport parking is your only option. Off-site parking facilities can be extremely useful for savvy travellers. These lots, generally located a short distance from the airport, may offer competitive rates compared to on-site parking.

Many off-site parking lot providers also go the extra mile to ensure a smooth experience. You’ll frequently find amenities like free shuttle services that run 24/7, ensuring you get to and from the airport quickly and comfortably. Some facilities also offer extra perks, such as car wash services, vehicle maintenance, or covered parking lots to protect your car from the elements while you’re gone.

The cost savings can also be substantial, especially for longer trips. So, if you’ll be away for a week-long vacation or an extended business trip, consider off-site parking to reduce your travel expenses. This extra cash in your pocket can be put towards more enjoyable aspects of your travel, like trying out a fancy restaurant or splurging on a special tour.

Use a Parking App

More and more travellers are turning to their smartphones to make parking easier, especially these days where there’s an app for just about everything - parking included. Parking apps have changed the game for drivers looking for spots, especially in busy cities and during peak travel times. They offer handy features, from advance reservations and price comparisons to real-time availability updates and contactless payments.

Maximizing these technological tools also means you’re helping to reduce traffic congestion. A 2020 Transportation Research reported that 30% of urban traffic is caused by drivers looking for parking, a percentage that can hugely increase during peak seasons. Parking apps help avoid this unnecessary traffic by guiding users directly to available spots. (2)

Look for Park and Ride Facilities

If you’re planning to visit a crowded city or attend a major event, consider using park and ride facilities. These lots are typically located on the outskirts of cities and offer affordable parking rates combined with public transportation into the city centre. This option not only saves you money but also helps you avoid the headache of navigating unfamiliar city streets and finding parking spaces in congested areas. 

Time Your Arrival Strategically

The timing of your arrival can significantly impact your parking experience, especially in populated tourist areas. That said, aim to reach your destination during off-peak hours - early morning or late evening - to increase your chances of securing a parking permit and better parking options.

This strategy is specifically effective in high-traffic tourist zones where parking becomes a premium during midday hours. Planning your arrival well can help you avoid the peak-time parking scramble and start your visit on a positive note.

Observe Local Parking Rules and Regulations

Every city has its own set of parking rules and regulations, so familiarize yourself with these regulations before you arrive. Pay attention to parking signs, parking meters, and any time restrictions. The last thing you want is to return to your car only to find a parking ticket or, worse, that it’s been towed because of your parking violations.

Be Mindful of Your Surroundings

Before parking, take a moment to assess your surroundings. Choose a well-lit area, especially if you’ll be returning after dark. Additionally, look for security cameras or parking attendants as an extra layer of protection for your parked vehicle.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation reports that parking lots ranked as the third most common place for crimes in 2021. Exercising a little caution can go a long way in protecting your vehicle and belongings. (3) 

Key Takeaway

Parking during peak travel seasons doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With some planning, flexibility, and smart strategies, you can turn this potential headache into a seamless part of your travel experience. Remember, your vacation begins the moment you leave your house; don’t let parking stress set the wrong tone for your trip.
 
References:
1. “Impact of Cruising for Parking on Travel Time of Traffic Flow”, Source: https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/12/8/3079
2. “Parking search caused congestion: Where’s all the fuss?”, Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0968090X20306914
3. “Parking Facility Safety Fact Sheet”, Source: https://www.tdi.texas.gov/pubs/videoresource/fsparkinglot.pdf